Alternatives to Fight Off West Nile Virus

Products with the chemical picaridin or natural products with oil of lemon eucalyptus are also now recommended to ward off mosquitoes and help protect against West Nile Virus.

Dr. Mike Kaufman of Michigan State University's entomology department says people have been looking for an alternative to DEET for a long time. Some people do not like the odor of the chemical and others are worried about concerns with the safety of DEET. But the Environmental Protection Agency says DEET is safe when used as directed.

However, giving people more options is a great way to help more people protect themselves from mosquitoes and the diseases they can carry.

DEET is also not recommended for small children, so as health officials look closer at these other options, they may make recommendations as to which product is best for certain populations.

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